The book of Exodus is traditionally attributed to Moses. However, Exodus itself does not name an author, and many modern scholars propose that it was compiled from earlier sources over time.
Traditional attribution
Exodus is commonly held to have been written by Moses, in keeping with its place in the Pentateuch (the five books of the Law). This traditional view treats Exodus as part of “the Law” connected with Moses’ authority and leadership.
What the text says
Although the book itself names no author, two pieces of evidence are often cited in support of Mosaic authorship.
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Scripture refers to the Law as “the book of Moses” (
Mark 12:26
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), a label that aligns Exodus with Moses in the broader scriptural tradition.
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Exodus describes Moses writing God’s words (
Exodus 24:4
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Why authorship is debated
Alongside the traditional attribution, there is an important note of caution: Exodus itself does not identify its writer. Many modern scholars therefore question single-author composition and propose that the book was compiled from earlier sources over time, a view often associated with the Documentary Hypothesis. This means that, in critical scholarship, Moses may be seen less as the sole writer and more as a foundational figure behind traditions that were later arranged into their final form.
What Exodus is about
Exodus is the second book of the Bible. It recounts Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt and the giving of the Law at Sinai. These themes are central to why the question of authorship arises in the first place: Exodus is not only a narrative of deliverance but also a key book of the Law, which is why it is traditionally linked to Moses and why passages like Exodus 24:4 are treated as significant.
Date and setting
The traditional date for Exodus is around the 15th–13th centuries BC, following Moses’ lifetime. At the same time, critical scholars often date the final form later, consistent with the view that the book was compiled from earlier sources over time. The result is that discussions of “who wrote Exodus” are often paired with questions of when the book reached its final form.
Original audience
Exodus is directed to the people of Israel. The book’s focus on deliverance from slavery in Egypt and the giving of the Law at Sinai addresses Israel’s identity and obligations as a people shaped by these events and by the Law associated with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Exodus name its author?
No. The book itself names no author, which is one reason the traditional view and modern scholarly proposals are discussed alongside each other.
Why do many people say Moses wrote Exodus?
Moses is the traditional author because Exodus is part of the Pentateuch (the five books of the Law), which is traditionally associated with Moses. In addition, Scripture calls the Law “the book of Moses” (
Mark 12:26
), and Exodus records Moses writing God’s words (
Exodus 24:4
).
What is the Documentary Hypothesis in relation to Exodus?
It is the idea, proposed by many modern scholars, that Exodus was compiled from earlier sources over time rather than written as a single work by one author. This proposal is one of the main reasons Mosaic authorship is questioned in modern critical study.
When was Exodus written?
Traditionally, it is dated to around the 15th–13th centuries BC, following Moses’ lifetime. Critical scholars often date the book’s final form later, consistent with the view that it was compiled over time.
What does Exodus cover?
Exodus is the second book of the Bible and tells of Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt and the giving of the Law at Sinai. It is addressed to the people of Israel.